An investigation is currently underway into four Metropolitan Police officers for alleged misconduct following the murders of two women by a man they had previously reported to the police. Carl Cooper, 66, was sentenced to life imprisonment in July for killing Naomi Hunte, 41, by stabbing her in the chest, and Fiona Holm, 48, who remains missing.
Both victims, who were former partners of the handyman Cooper, had separately reported his violent behaviour to the police before their tragic deaths. The Met Police confirmed on Wednesday, as reported by The Times, that they are examining the conduct of the four officers regarding Ms. Holm’s assault allegations against Cooper dating back to April 2023. Despite being arrested after the assault allegation, Cooper was not prosecuted according to the police report, and Ms. Holm, from south-east London, was tragically killed approximately two months later on 20 June 2023.
A review of how Ms. Holm’s complaint was handled revealed that a more thorough investigation might have identified essential witnesses who could have supported a victim-led prosecution. During Cooper’s trial at Woolwich Crown Court, evidence was presented showing that Ms. Hunte had made several calls to the police regarding domestic incidents in which she claimed Cooper was “obsessed” with her.
In a distressing police call-out to her residence on 29 June 2021, she expressed fear of Cooper, telling officers that he “stalks me and I’m really scared now”. Met Police Commander, Paul Brogden, expressed deep condolences to the families of the two women and acknowledged the mistakes made by the police in handling allegations against Cooper. He emphasised that ongoing reviews led by the Met’s directorate of professional standards are examining these matters.
The investigation includes the conduct of the officers regarding a grievous bodily harm complaint made by Ms. Hunte in April 2023. The case was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct which recommended a local investigation. The watchdog will review the investigation findings, according to the Metropolitan Police. Cooper’s sentencing in July saw Justice Johnson condemning him as a danger to women with a history of controlling and coercive behaviour in his relationships.
Met Police Commander Brogden expressed regret for not having enough evidence to charge Cooper sooner for the murder of Naomi and reiterated efforts to locate Fiona’s remains for her family’s closure. The ongoing probes are part of the continuous efforts to ensure accountability and justice in this tragic case. The families of the victims deserve answers and closure, and the police are committed to rectifying any mistakes made in handling these serious complaints.